Kristian And Friends Take On Marathon Swimming Fundraiser At Tralee Pool

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Looking forward to the 24 Miles in 24 Hours swimming event in Tralee Sports and Leisure Centre on April 29/30 were Finbarr Griffin, Kristian O’Donovan, Kyle O’Donovan and Kieran O’Flaherty. Photo by Dermot Crean

A TRALEE native is raising funds for three great causes by taking on marathon swimming events in the US this year.

And having completed the Tampa Bay Marathon Swim (24 miles) in March, Kristian O’Donovan from Derrylea – but now living in Glenbeigh – is turning his attention to raising funds with a marathon 24 hour event in Tralee Sports Complex Swimming Pool next weekend.

From 11am on Saturday morning, April 29, between 24 and 40 swimmers will each swim 1,650 metres or one mile, in a relay format.

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Kristian has organised the 24 miles in 24 hours event for three organisations, all of which are very important to him.

He is supporting Down Syndrome Kerry as his brother-in-law, Cathal Griffin has Down Syndrome. “He has never let this get in his way and is a constant source of inspriation for me. This wonderful organisation has played a huge part in his successes and the work they do for many families across the county is fantastic,” said Kristian.

His second charity is Glow Hearts 4 Crumlin, started by mothers, all of whom had children born with a congenital heart defect (CHD)  to raise funds for Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital in Crumlin. Kristian’s niece, Sadie, was born with a CHD and thanks to the great work of the nurses, doctors and surgeons in Crumlin she is fighting fit now.

His third charity is the Childhood Cancer Foundation which funds research, play therapy and vital equipment used in St. John’s paediatric cancer ward in Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital Crumlin.

Kristian is also preparing for two more swims in June in the US. He’s off to Catalina Island (21 miles) near Los Angeles on June 1-2 and on June 24 he intends on doing the 20 Bridges Swim in New York (28 miles).

All monies raised will go to the charities as he will be self-financing the flights, accommodation and entry fees. If you want to support Kristian in his fundraising endeavours click here to go to his gofundme page while if you fancy getting involved next Saturday, click here to find out more